Philosophy of Worship

"I will sing of the lovingkindness of the LORD forever; To all generations I will make known Your faithfulness with my mouth." - Psalms 89:1

Choosing Music at UBC

The musical worship at UBC reflects the multi-generational make up of our congregation, combining a mix of modern songs with traditional hymns. Musical style and preference can be a very personal and touchy issue. Some people want fast celebrative music, others want slow reflective songs; some prefer lots of instruments, others prefer minimal instruments. The following considerations guide our selection and style of musical worship:

Music that is theologically and biblically sound.

Colossians 3:16 indicates that musical worship ought to be the outflow of the Word of Christ dwelling richly in our hearts. We look for songs with significant words that magnify God, point us to the cross, and compliment the theme of the preaching in our gathering that week.

Music that is congregational.

Some worship music and Christian music is beautiful – but hard to sing! Not all “Christian music” is appropriate for a congregation. Our aim in corporate worship is not musical performance but congregational singing. The singability and familiarity of songs is therefore important.

Music that is timeless more than popular.

There are many great new songs, but we try to consider: Will this song have an enduring legacy?
Because of this, our general purpose is to add new songs wisely and to repeat them regularly.

Undoubtedly, within a congregation committed to these values, there will still be different preferences in musical style. This is a practical area to apply Philippians 2:3 “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves.” As Christians unified in one body, we must show grace, patience, and preference to others through the use of music that may not minister to us but does minister to someone else.

Approach to Ministry

Our Goal is to lead the congregation in the musical praise and worship of God.

Philosophy for music team members:
1. Set an example themselves in the praise and worship of God.
2. Choose music in accordance with UBC doctrine and the philosophy outlined above.
3. Provide excellent musicianship that does not deter or distract from the worship service.